Deacon Lee Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · Swimming · Views

Runners starting the Deacon Lee from its east end (at the PCT) should know that it's an old road from the PCT to the top of the ridge just southwest of Siphon Lake. It doesn't become a singletrack trail until the west side of that ridge.

Excellent views but minimal shade and water.

Deacon Lee Trail is a popular singletrack trail that provides the easiest access to Russian Lake at approximately 4 miles in by turning on to South Russian Creek Trail, then continuing another 0.5 - 1.0 miles around Waterdog Lake. The Deacon Lee Trail intersects the Pacific Crest Trail at 6.7 miles in, past Siphon Lake.

The beginning of the trail is forest that quickly turns to recently burned landscape, exposing runners to the elements. However, the vantage point and lack of foliage offer excellent views toward Trinity Alps Wilderness. Water is not plentiful and can be unavailable on the trail.

Burned trees, berries, hawks, birds